WORKERS with the Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust (JRHT) have defended the controversial workshops designed to train them in how to look out for problems like no heating, child abuse and drug abuse while repairing homes.

Fourteen out of the 19 Direct Labour Organisation (DLO) workers, who have so far attended the course, signed a joint letter to the Evening Press rubbishing claims that the courses were teaching them to "spy" on tenants. The team is responsible for helping to maintain 1,600 of the trust's properties in New Earswick and elsewhere across the city.

The Evening Press reported the claims of a furious DLO worker who said the workshop - which aimed to "recognise areas of concern in the community" - was unnecessary and like "Big Brother".

JRHT residents were not aware of the new course and some claimed it was a breach of their civil liberties.

The letter, signed by the DLO staff, says they "did not recognise" the negative description of the workshop they attended. "It was completely clear that the training we attended was about helping residents, especially those who are elderly and/or disabled," it states.

"Many residents are not aware of the help and benefits available to them and if we are able to help them that is what we want to do.

"The suggestion that we are being asked to spy on residents is ridiculous and hurtful to those of us who do our best to help residents in any way we can.

"We believe we have a very good working relationship with the majority of our residents and we are very disappointed that an attempt has been made to spoil these good relations caused by someone who has clearly got the wrong end of the stick."

Updated: 10:23 Monday, February 07, 2005